Analog compressors differ mainly in attack and release profiles
Problem: confusion between different compressor models
Different analog compressors, such as the LA2A or other vintage models, have distinct sonic characteristics, but the most significant differences between them are their attack and release profiles. These profiles…
Use a hybrid analog/digital console for flexibility
Problem: lack of flexibility in mixing setups
Marc uses a hybrid console that allows for both analog mixing and digital automation via Pro Tools. This setup provides the warmth and tactile feel of an analog console while still offering the precision and recall of a…
Use a hybrid mixing approach with analog and digital layers for better recallability
Problem: mix recall inconsistency, lack of control
Marc Urselli uses a hybrid mixing approach where he starts mixing in the box at home, then breaks the session out to an analog console. He sets all analog faders to zero and uses the digital layer in Pro Tools for…
Use touchscreens and trackpads on the console for digital control of analog EQ and dynamics
Problem: manual adjustment of analog gear
The Neve Genesis console allows for digital control of analog EQ and dynamics sections through a touchscreen and trackpad. This means that even though the console is analog, its parameters can be adjusted and recalled…
Use analog gear for warmth and character
Problem: cold, lifeless digital sound
Analog synthesizers and effects can add warmth and character to your sound that is often missing in purely digital setups. Ozgun uses the Behringer TD3 analog synth and the MXR Distortion Plus analog distortion pedal,…
Analog saturation can add pleasing character to a mix, unlike digital clipping
Problem: digital clipping and harshness in mastering
The Foo Fighters track has a warm, pleasing analog saturation character, while other tracks sound like they're clipping digitally. This highlights the importance of using analog-style saturation during mastering to add…
Use outboard gear for nuanced tonal shaping
Problem: channel EQ insufficient for complex tonal adjustments
The speaker suggests using outboard equipment like the Poll Tech (tube-based) or GML (solid-state) for more detailed and warm tonal shaping compared to channel EQ. This approach can smooth out frequency imbalances and…
Use Diva for analog-style synthesis and 80s-inspired tracks
Problem: limited synth options for retro sounds
Diva is highlighted as a versatile analog-style synthesizer ideal for creating retro 80s sounds. Its extensive presets and ability to produce gritty or punchy basslines make it suitable for genres like synthwave or retro…
Use analog emulation plugins for warmth
Problem: mix sounds too cold or digital
Applying analog emulation plugins (e.g., tape saturation, tube distortion) can add warmth and character to a mix. The speaker demonstrates this by comparing a render with plugins activated to one without, showing the…
Use analog waveforms to create a better color in the mids
Problem: muddy midrange
Using analog waveforms will give us a better color in the mids and help us get closer to the 'hello bass' sound.
Use feed-forward/feedback switching to emulate analog compressor behavior
Problem: digital compressors lack analog character
Switching between feed-forward and feedback modes in compressors allows emulating analog characteristics. Feedback mode (detector after gain reduction) creates a more aggressive, punchy sound, while feed-forward offers…
Technique: Use analog synths for unconventional sound design
Problem: predictable digital synth sounds
The speaker demonstrates routing MIDI through analog synths (e.g., Prophet 10, Juno) to create unique textures. This approach bypasses digital limitations and encourages 'obnoxious' experimentation. The result is a sound…
Use analog gear and vinyl for unique recording textures
Problem: sterile, lifeless recordings
The speaker describes using vintage analog equipment and vinyl records to capture organic, warm sounds. This approach adds character to drum layers and other elements, distinguishing the music from sterile digital…
Build a studio with analog gear for a unique sound
Problem: lack of studio character
The speaker describes setting up a studio with a mix of analog and digital tools, emphasizing the importance of physical equipment for tactile control and unique tonal qualities. This setup is ideal for producers seeking…
Set filter to analog mode for warmer tone
Problem: digital filter harshness
Enabling the analog filter mode emulates the smooth frequency response of analog hardware. This reduces the harshness of digital filters and adds warmth, which is crucial for sub-bass that needs to sit well in a mix. The…
Use analog envelopes for precise control over growl dynamics
Analog envelopes provide smoother, more natural-sounding attack/decay/sustain/release curves compared to digital envelopes, which is critical for achieving organic growl textures.